Earlier this week I discussed ways you can protect yourself from
becoming a victim of
identity theft. In my blog,
I briefly mentioned opting out of pre-approved credit card offers
to shield your identity. This topic deserves more
attention.

While my suggestion of opting out of pre-approved credit card
offers may sound like a no brainer, don't be fooled as it is no
easy feat. Not only are credit card companies in the business
of extending you credit but they also make their money buying and
selling your personal information so by opting out of their offers
you are taking away a portion of their business. Regardless,
there are several ways to opt out of credit card offers.

Option 1: Call
The credit card companies under the direction of the Federal Trade Commission
and the major credit reporting agencies have set up a toll free
telephone number for you to call and opt out of the pre-approved
offers. The number is 1-888-5-OPT-OUT. Over the
automated system you are asked to provide your social security
number. This may not appeal to you.

Option 2: Online
The
credit reporting agencies including Equifax, Experian and Trans
Union allow you to opt out online. On the OptOutPrescreen website you can select not to include your
social security number but it will take several weeks to take
effect.

Option 3: In Writing
You can notify the
credit reporting agencies in writing that you wish to opt out
of pre-approved credit offers. Visit each of the credit
reporting agencies websites for
their address (or our
website) and send a letter certified mail letting each of the
agencies know they must remove your information from their
database.